Arched building structure, modular building blocks, and method of constructing an arched building structure

ABSTRACT

An arched building structure is provided having a foundation, an arch roof, a front wall, and a back wall. The arch roof is assembled from a rows of arches assembled from plurality of modular blocks. The rows of arches are interlocked with each other. The modular blocks include interlocking shapes and a fastening system.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This non-provisional application claims the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 61/968,120, filed on Mar. 20, 2014, which is herebyincorporated in its entirety herein by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates generally to a building structure and moreparticularly to an arched building structure constructed with a modularbuilding block using a method of construction suited to quick and easyassembly.

BACKGROUND

The statements in this section merely provide background informationrelated to the present disclosure and may or may not constitute priorart.

Building shelter has been one of humankind's oldest and most necessarypractices, in the past, people have built shelters according to theneeds of the people to be sheltered; especially the need to stay dry andthe need to stay warm in a cold climate or cool in a warm climate.However, other needs are serviced by shelters or buildings that includeshelter of materials or animals, defense from attackers, and a place tosocialize, being that humans are a very social being. Still, the worldis constantly developing new reasons or challenges that which oldbuildings fail to adequately protect its inhabitants,

Thus there is a constant need to improve building structures toaccommodate new challenges. As a result, there is a need for a buildingstructure capable of being placed on the surface of the ground or builtsubterranean that can be assembled in a modular method, can withstandextreme compression forces, and can provide a great deal of floor spacewithout additional roof support such as columns, beams, etc.

SUMMARY

A modular building system is provided, the system includes a foundation,a plurality of modular arches, a first and second end wall, and afastening system. The foundation has a first and second footing, a firstside and second side opposite the first side, a first end and second endopposite the first end. The first footing is disposed proximate thefirst side of the foundation. The second footing is disposed proximatethe second side of the foundation. The plurality of modular arches havea first end, a second end, a first side, and a second side. Each of themodular arches includes a first base modular block, a second basemodular block, and a plurality of a arcuate modular blocks. The firstbase modular block disposed on the first end of the modular arch. Thesecond base modular block disposed at the second end of the modulararch. The plurality of arcuate modular blocks are disposed end to endforming a portion of each of the modular arches between the base modularblocks. Each of the plurality of modular arches is disposed so the firstside of one of the plurality of modular arches is adjacent the secondside of another one of the plurality of modular arches. The first endwall is disposed adjacent the first side of a terminating modular arch.The second end wall is disposed adjacent the second side of anotherterminating modular arch. The fastening system disposed between adjacentmodular arches for securely fastening adjacent modular arches to eachother.

In one example of the present invention, the first and second footingseach include a recessed channel disposed along the length of thefootings and the first end of each of the modular arches is disposed inthe recessed channel of the first footing and the second end of each ofthe modular arches is disposed in the recessed channel of the secondfooting.

In another example of the present invention, each of the base modularblocks include a first end, a second end, an arcuate portion, and astraight portion, the arcuate portion is proximate the first end, thestraight portion is approximate the second end, and the second end ofthe base modular block is disposed in the recessed channel of one of thefirst and second footing.

In yet another example of the present invention, each of the arcuatemodular blocks has a first side, a second side, a first end, and asecond end, the first side includes at least one raised portion, thesecond side includes at least one recessed portion, and the raisedportion of the first side of one of the arcuate modular blocks isdisposed in the recessed portion of the second side of another one ofthe arcuate modular blocks.

In yet another example of the present invention, the arcuate portion ofthe first base modular block has half the arc length as the arcuateportion of the second base modular block.

In yet another example of the present invention, each of the arcuate andbase modular blocks have a generally “U” shaped cross section, includefastening bores disposed in the recessed and raised portions of themodular block, the fastening bore for any one modular block aligns withthe fastening bore for the adjacent modular block, and the fasteningsystem is disposed in the adjacent fastening bores of adjacent modularblocks.

In yet another example of the present invention, the fastening systemincludes a bolt, a first and a second compression sleeve assembly, awasher, and at least one nut, the first compression sleeve is disposedin a fastening bore of a recessed portion of a modular block, the secondcompression sleeve is disposed in a fastening bore of a raised portionof an adjacent modular block and axially aligned with the firstcompression sleeve, the washer is disposed between the first and secondcompression sleeves, the bolt is disposed in the first and secondcompression sleeves with the ends of the bolt extended beyond thecompression sleeves, and the nut is secured on a threaded end of thebolt.

In yet another example of the present invention, the modular blocks aremade of a concrete material including reinforcing rods and thecompression sleeves are welded to the reinforcing rods.

A modular building block is provided for a modular building systemhaving a first end, a second end, a first side, a second side, a curvedtop surface, a concave bottom surface, and an interior cavity.

In one example of the present invention, the first side of the blockincludes at least one raised portion and at least one recessed portion,the second side includes at least one raised portion and at least onerecessed portion, and the arc length of the raised portions of the firstand second sides is equal to the arc length of the recessed portions ofthe first and second sides.

in another example of the present invention, the modular block furtherincludes a utility box and material handling eyelets disposed in thecurved top surface of the modular building block.

In yet another example of the present invention, each of the raised andrecessed portions include a fastening bore extending from the first orsecond sided of the building block to the inner cavity, and the blockfurther includes a first and a second compression sleeve assembly, andwherein the first compression assembly is disposed in a fastening boreof a recessed portion, the second compression sleeve is disposed in afastening bore of a raised portion.

In yet another example of the present invention, the modular blocks aremade of a concrete material including reinforcing rods and thecompression sleeves are welded to the reinforcing rods.

In yet another example of the present invention, the raised and recessedportions of the first and second sides of the modular blocks have aarcuate shape.

In yet another example of the present invention, the raised and recessedportions of the first and second sides of the modular blocks have afrusto conical shape.

In yet another example of the present invention, the interior cavity ofincludes at least one interior strengthening wall.

Further objects, aspects and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent by reference to the following description and appendeddrawings wherein like reference numbers refer to the same component,element or feature.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustration purposes only and arenot intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way;

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of an arched building structureaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a rear elevation view of an arched building structureaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an arched building structure accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an arched building structure accordingto the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a cross sectional view of a foundation and a partial wallstructure of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of a basic modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 6B is a perspective view of a basic modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a base modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective cutaway view of the interior of a basic modularblock according to the present invention;

FIG. 9A is a cross sectional view of adjacent basic modular blocks priorto assembly according to the present invention;

FIG. 9B is a cross sectional view of adjacent basic modular blocks priorto assembly according to the present invention;

FIG. 10A is a partial cross sectional view of assembled basic modularblocks according to the present invention;

FIG. 10B is a partial cross sectional view of assembled basic modularaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 11A is a cross sectional view of a pair of basic modular blocksaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 11B is a cross sectional view of a pair of basic modular blocksaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 12 is a plan view of a portion of an arched building structureaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 13A is a partial cross sectional view of an end wall and archedroof of an arched building structure according to the present invention

FIG. 13B is a partial cross sectional view of an end wall and archedroof of an arched building structure according to the present invention

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a roof of an arched building structureaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 15A is a partial perspective view of a side wall having a door tothe interior of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 15B is a partial perspective view of a side wall having a door tothe exterior of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of a curved modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a curved modular half block for use inthe construction of an arched building structure according to thepresent invention; and

FIG. 18 is a plan view of an arched building structure according to thepresent invention;

FIG. 19 is a partial cross sectional view of an interior partition walland arched roof of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 20A is a perspective view of a base modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 20B is a perspective view of a base modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 20C is a plan view of assembled base modular blocks according tothe present invention;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a base modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention;

FIG. 22 is a bottom view of a base modular block for use in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a footing block for an arched buildingstructure according to the present invention; and

FIG. 24 is an end view of an arch building and form for aiding in theconstruction of an arched building structure according to the presentinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is notintended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers refer to likecomponents, in FIG. 1 a front elevation of an arched building structure10 is illustrated. Likewise, FIG. 2 illustrates a rear elevation of thesame arched building structure and FIG. 3 illustrates the interior ofthe arched building structure 10. In these views, it can be seen thatthe arched building structure 10 includes a foundation 12, an arch roof14, a front wall 16, and a partial rear wall 18. More specifically, thefoundation 12 includes a footing portion 20 which bears the load of thearched building structure 10 and a slab portion 22 which provides afloor 24 of the arched building structure 10. The arch roof 14 issupported by the footing portion 20 of the foundation 12 and isgenerally a semicircular form, however, other types or forms of the archroof 14 may be used without departing from the scope of the invention.The arch roof 14 is an assembly of singular arch rows or single arches30. Each of the arch rows 30 includes a plurality of modular blocks 26and a number of specialty modular blocks 28. The modular blocks 26 arefirst assembled end to end to form the single arch 30 and then severalsingle arches 30 are placed side to side to expand the depth of the archroof 14. The front wall 16 is supported by the footing portion 20 of thefoundation 12 and extends to cover an interior or front opening 32 ofthe arch roof 14. The front wall 16 includes openings or portals 34 toallow for ingress and egress of personnel, vehicles, equipment, andlight. Similar to the front wall 16, the rear wall 18 is supported bythe footing portion 20 of the foundation. The rear wall 18 may alsoinclude opening or portals 34.

Referring now to FIG. 4, an example of an arched building structure 40is illustrated and will now be described. The arched building structure40 is similar to that shown in FIGS. 1-3, however, the arched buildingstructure 40 is shown buried under earth 42. Furthermore, the archedbuilding structure 40 includes an arch roof 44 having an angled orscalloped portion 46 on a front end of the arch roof 44. The angled ofscalloped portion 46 of the arch 44 may also include a hand or safetyrailing 48 to prevent accidental falls. Additionally, a set of stairs 50may be incorporated into the arch roof 44 or the side of the hill orearth 42 that the arched building 40 is built into.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a detailed cross section of a portion of anarched building structure 50 is illustrated and will now be described,in this example, the arched building structure 50 includes a foundation52 and an arch 54. More specifically, the foundation 52 includes afooting 56 in which is disposed a base portion 58 of the arch 54. Thefooting 56 includes a recess channel 53 running the length of the sideof the footing 56 and is capable of handling both the vertical andlateral loads applied to it by the arch 54. The foundation 52 furtherincludes a slab or floor 60 disposed in an interior of the arch 54 andsupported by the footing 56.

Referring now to FIGS. 6A and 6B with reference also to FIG. 3, forexample, a modular block 26 is illustrated and will now be described.Generally, the modular block 26 is a segment of the arch roof 14 andincludes a first end 70, a second end 72, a first side 74, a second side76, a convex outer surface 78, and a concave inner surface 80. Morespecifically, the first end 70 of the modular block is a flat surfaceand is opposite another fiat surface of the second end 72. The firstside 74 includes a surface 74A and a raised portion 82 that essentiallytraverses the length of the modular block 26 from the first end 70 tothe second end 72. The second side 76 includes a surface 76A and arecessed portion 84 that also traverses the length of the modular block26 from the first end 70 to the second end 72. Each of the recessed andraised portions 82, 84 include an angled or bearing surface 82A, 84A anda top surface 82B in the case of the raise portion 82 and a bottomsurface 84B in the case of the recessed portion 84. The angled orbearing surfaces 82A, 84A are disposed on either side of the recessed orraised portion 82, 84 where the recessed and raised portions 82, 84transition to the surface 74A, 76A of the first and second sides 74, 76respectively. The modular block 26 further includes a hollow coreinterior 86 that is open to atmosphere on the convex inner surface 80.The core 86 of the modular block 26 is of such a dimension to producerelatively equal thickness throughout the modular block 26.Additionally, each of the first and second sides 74, 76 include a pairof bores 88 disposed on the raised and recessed portions 82, 84,respectively, such that the surface of the raised and recessed portions82, 84 communicates with the inner surfaces of the core 86 of themodular block 26. The modular block 26 is also required in a half-lengthversion. With a quick reference back to FIG. 1, the single arch 30includes several modular blocks 26 place end to end with a spacer orjoint filler 71 disposed between the ends 70, 72 of consecutive modularblocks 26.

Referring now to FIG. 7, a base modular block 90 is illustrated and willnow be described. Similar to the modular block 26, the base modularblock 90 is a segment of the arch roof 14 but it is also a first segmentof the arch roof 14. The base modular block includes a first end 92, asecond end 94, a first side 96, a second side 98, a convex outer surface100, and a concave inner surface 102. More specifically, the first end92 of the base modular block 90 is a flat surface and is oppositeanother flat surface of the second end 94. However, the overall lengthLB of the base modular block 90 is slightly longer than the overalllength LM of the modular block 26. The additional length 104 is added tothe first end 92 and used to set the base modular block 90 into thefoundation 50 as shown in FIG. 5. Like the modular block 26, the firstside 102 of the base modular block 90 includes a raised portion 106 thatessentially traverses the length of the base modular block 90 from thefirst end 92 to the second end 94. The second side 98 includes arecessed portion 108 that also traverses the length of the base modularblock 90 from the first end 92 to the second end 94. The base modularblock 90 further includes a hollow core interior 110 that is open toatmosphere on the convex inner surface 102. The core 110 of the basemodular block 90 is of such a dimension to produce relatively equalthickness throughout the base modular block 90 except for the volume ofthe base modular block 90 that adds the additional length 104 over themodular block 26. Additionally, each of the first and second sides 96,98 include a pair of bores 112 disposed on the raised and recessedportions 106, 108, respectively, such that the surface of the raised andrecessed portions 106, 108 communicates with the inner surfaces of thecore 110 of the base modular block 90.

Referring now to FIGS, 8, 9A, 93, 10A, and 10B with continuing referenceto FIGS, 6A and 6B, the interior of a modular block 26 is illustratedand will now be described. The modular block 26 further includes afastener support assembly 120 for each of the bores 88 of the modularblock 26. For example each fastener support assembly 120 includes acompression sleeve 122, and a first and second washer 124, 126. Thesleeve 122 is disposed in the bore 88 and has a first end 128 fixed tothe first washer 124 such that the axis i of the sleeve 122 is coaxialwith the center of the first washer 124. Additionally, a second end ofthe sleeve 122 is fixed to the second washer such that the axis i of thesleeve 122 is concentric with the center of the second washer 126.

Referring more closely now to FIG. 10A, a first and a second modularblock 26A, 263, are illustrated in an assembled state. For example, themodular blocks 26A, 2613 are assembled so that a first side 74A of thesecond modular block 26B is adjacent to a second side 76A of the firstmodular block 26A and the raised portion 82A of the second modular block268 is disposed In the recessed portion 84A of the first modular block26A. The first and second modular blocks 26A, 26B are further assembledsuch that the bearing surfaces 82A of the raised portion 82 are in hardcontact with the bearing surfaces 84A of the recessed portion 84.Furthermore, as the modular blocks 26A, 268 are assembled a small gap c,d, e remains between the surface 74A of the first side 74 of the secondmodular block 26B and the surface 76A of the second side 76 of the firstmodular block 26A and between the top surface 823 of the raised portion82 of the second modular block 268 and the bottom surface 84B of therecessed portion 84 of the first modular block 26A.

A fastening system 130 is disposed in the fastener support assembly 120and includes at least a threaded bolt or rod 132, a first and second nut134, 136, and a compliant washer 137. The bolt 132 includes a first andsecond end 132A, 132B with each end having a threaded portion 1320, 132Dand is disposed coaxially with the sleeve 122 of the fastener supportassembly 120 such that the threaded end portions 1320, 132D extendbeyond the ends of the sleeve 122 and tie washers 126. The bolt 132 mayalso be a standard bold having a head in lieu of a second nut withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention. The nut 134 is threaded ontothe threaded portion 132C of the first end 132A of the bolt 132. The nut136 is threaded onto the threaded portion 132D of the second end 1323 ofthe bolt 132. The washer 137 is disposed on the bolt 132 between thefirst and second modular blocks 26A, 26B. Additional components such aswashers, lock washers, fastener adhesives, etc., may be used in thefastening system 130 and fastening support system 120 without departingfrom the scope of the invention. The nuts 134, 136 are torqued to aspecified amount for proper loading of the bolt 132, washers 126, 137and sleeve 122.

The modular blocks 26A, 26B also includes a reinforcement bar 140 on theinterior of the modular blocks 26A, 26B. The reinforcement bar 140 isillustrated as a single bar running the length of the interior of themodular blocks, 26A, 266, however, multiple reinforcing bars may beincluded in the modular blocks 26A, 266 without departing from the scopeof the Invention. The reinforcement bar 140 is disposed proximate thefastener support system 120 and is fixed to the sleeve 122 of thefastener support system 120. Additionally, the reinforcement bar 140,once electrically connected to the sleeve 122, may form a portion of aFaraday cage or shield that provides shelter from outside electronicdisturbances or signals that may interfere with electronic devices onthe inside of the building structure.

Referring more closely now to FIG. 106, another example of a first and asecond modular block 326A, 326B, are illustrated in an assembled state.For example, the modular blocks 326A, 326B are assembled so that a firstside 374A of the second modular block 26B is adjacent to a second side376A of the first modular block 326A and the raised portion 382A of thesecond modular block 326B is disposed in the recessed portion 384A ofthe first modular block 326A. The first and second modular blocks 326A,326B are further assembled such that the point of contact between themodular blocks 326A, 326B is the washer 337. Furthermore, as the modularblocks 326A, 326E are assembled a small gap c, d, e remains between thesurface 374A of the first side 374 of the second modular block 326E andthe surface 376A of the second side 376 of the first modular block 326Aand between the top surface 382B of the raised portion 382 of the secondmodular block 326B and the bottom surface 384B of the recessed portion384 of the first modular block 326A.

A fastening system 330 is disposed in the fastener support assembly 320and includes at least a threaded bolt or rod 332, a first and second nut334, 336, and a compliant washer 337. The bolt 332 includes a first andsecond end 332A, 332B with each end having a threaded portion 332C, 332Dand is disposed coaxially with the sleeve 322 of the fastener supportassembly 320 such that the threaded end portions 332C, 332D extendbeyond the ends of the sleeve 322 and the washers 326. The bolt 332 mayalso be a standard bold having a head in lieu of a second nut withoutdeparting from the scope of the invention. The nut 334 is threaded ontothe threaded portion 332C of the first end 332A of the bolt 332. The nut336 is threaded onto the threaded portion 332D of the second end 332B ofthe bolt 332. The washer 337 is disposed on the bolt 332 between thefirst and second modular blocks 326A, 326B. Additional components suchas washers, lock washers, fastener adhesives, etc., may be used in thefastening system 330 and fastening support system 320 without departingfrom the scope of the invention. The nuts 334, 336 are torqued to aspecified amount for proper loading of the bolt 332, washers 326, 337and sleeve 322.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A, a modular block 26 including a utilityconnectivity system 150 is illustrated. The utility connectivity system150 includes a cavity 152, a knock-out web 154, a preformed groove 156,and a utility box 158. The cavity 152 is formed in the outer surface 78of the modular block 26 so that an opening of the cavity 152 is open tothe atmosphere. The knock-out web 154 separates the cavity 152 from thecore 86 of the modular block 26. The preformed groove 156 is disposedaround the perimeter of the cavity 152 to facilitate dean and easyremoval of the knock-out web 154. The utility box 158 is disposed withinthe cavity 152.

Referring now to FIGS. 11B, the modular block 26 including anotherutility connectivity system 160 is illustrated. The utility connectivitysystem 160 includes a utility box 162 and a conduit 164. The utility box162 includes a first open end 166 and a second connector end 168. Theutility box 162 is disposed in the modular block 26 so that the firstend 166 of the utility box 162 is open to the core 86 of the modularblock 26 and that the second end 168 is exposed to the atmosphere. Theconduit 164 is fixed to the second connector end 168 of the utility box162. The utility connectivity system 160 can be used to run electricalwire for lighting or heating as well as communications wire, etc.

Referring now to FIG. 12, a plan view of the arched building structure10 is illustrated including an egress system 170. The egress system 170includes a stairwell 172, a tunnel 174, an interior wall 176, and wallsupports 178. The interior wall 176 is disposed parallel to the backwall 18 of the arched building structure 10. The stairwell 172 is placedbetween the interior wall 176 and the back wall 18. Additionalstructural support is provided to the back wall 18 by the wall supports178. A first doorway 180 is disposed in the interior wall 176 andprovides access to the stairwell 172. A second doorway 182 is disposedin the back wall 18 and provides access to the tunnel 174 or theexterior of the arched building structure 10.

Referring now to FIG. 13A and 13B, a detailed view of construction ofthe arched building structure 10 is illustrated showing the anchoring ofthe arch roof 14 to, for example, the back wall 18. The back wall 18includes an interior support core member 190, a first exteriorinsulation member 192, and a second interior insulation member 194. Theinterior support core member 190 is placed predominantly between theinsulation members 192, 194 and can be formed of masonry, pre-castconcrete, poured concrete, etc. without departing from the scope of theinvention. The arched building structure 10 further includes ananchoring system 198 for securing the arch roof 14 to the back wall 18.The anchoring system 198 includes an anchor bolt 200, a first nut 202, asecond nut 203 and a number of washers 205. The anchor bolt 200 hasfirst end 204 and a second end 206. The first end 204 of the anchor bolt200 is fixedly disposed in the interior support core member 190 of theback wall 18. The second end 206 of the anchor bolt 200 includes athreaded portion 208 and is disposed in the fastener support sleeve 122of the fastener support system 120 of the modular block 26. The nut 202is threaded onto the threaded portion and torqued to a specified value.The arched building structure 10 also includes an insulation layer 210on the exterior of the arch roof 14.

Referring now to FIG. 14, the arch roof 14 of the arched buildingstructure 10 is illustrated including a skylight modular block 212. Theskylight modular block 212 includes four sides 214, an interior surface216, an exterior surface (not shown), and a hollow core 218. Theskylight modular block 212 is disposed in the arch roof 14 such that twoof the four sides 214 are supported by the ends 70, 72 of adjacentmodular blocks 26 and the other two of the four sides 214 are fastenedto the sides 74, 76 of adjacent modular blocks 26.

Referring now to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the arched building structure 10 isillustrated including a doorway modular block 220. The doorway modularblock 220 includes three sides 222, a base surface 224, an interiorsurface 225, an exterior surface 226, and a hollow core 228. The doorwaymodular block 220 is disposed in the arch roof 14 such that two of thethree sides 222 are fastened to the sides 74, 76 of adjacent modularblocks 26. The third of the three sides 222 supports the ends 70, 72 ofadjacent modular blocks 26.

Referring now to FIGS. 4, 16, and 17, the arched building structure 40is illustrated in FIG. 4 including the angled or scalloped portion 46 onthe front end of the arch 44. The angled of scalloped portion 46 of thearch 44 is assembled using the full curved block 230 of FIG. 16 and thehalf curved block 232, of FIG. 17. The curved blocks 230, 232 aresimilar to the modular blocks 26. However, the differences include awider base end 234, 236 and an arcuate or curved side 238, 240. A topend 242, 244 of each of the curved blocks are the same width as the ends70, 72 of the modular blocks 26 and the base end 234, 236 of the curvedblocks are two times the width of the ends 70, 72 of the modular blocks.

Referring now to FIG. 18, an arch building structure 240 according tothe present invention is illustrated and will now be described. Thearched building structure 240 includes a first span of arch rows 242 anda second span of arch rows 244. The first span 242 intersects the secondspan 244 at an angle α. As shown in FIG. 18, the angle α is 90°.Additional shapes and floor plans of the arched building structure 240can be used without departing from the scope of the invention.

Referring now to FIG. 19, a detailed view of the construction of thearched building structure 10 is illustrated showing the anchoring of thearch roof 14 to, for example, an interior partition wall 250.

Referring now to FIG. 20A, an example of a modular block 300 isillustrated and will now be described. Generally, the modular block 300is a segment of the arch roof 14 and includes a first end 302, a secondend 304, a first side 306, a second side 308, a convex outer surface310, and a concave inner surface 312. More specifically, the first end302 of the modular block is a flat surface and is opposite another flatsurface of the second end 304. The first side 306 includes a firstsurface 314, a raised second surface 316, and a recessed third surface318. The second surface 316 and the third surface 318 essentiallytraverses the length of the modular block 300 from the first end 302 tothe second end 304 with a surface transition 320 disposed midway betweenthe first end 302 an the second end 304. The second side 308 has astructure that mirrors the first side 306. Each of the recessed andraised portions 316, 318 include an angled or bearing surface 316A,316B, 318A, 3188. The angled or bearing surfaces 316A, 316B, 318A, 318Bare disposed on either side of the recessed or raised portion 316, 318where the recessed and raised portions 316, 318 transition to thesurface 314 of the first side 306. The second side 308 has a structurethat mirrors the first side 306.

Referring now to FIG. 20B, an example of a modular block 400 isillustrated and will now be described. Generally, the modular block 400is a segment of the arch roof 14 and includes a first end 402, a secondend 404, a first side 406, a second side 408, a convex outer surface410, and a concave inner surface 412. More specifically, the first end402 of the modular block is a flat surface and is opposite another flatsurface of the second end 404. The first side 406 includes a firstsurface 414, a plurality of raised second surfaces 416, and a pluralityof recessed third surfaces 418. The plurality of second surfaces 416 andthe plurality of third surfaces 418 alternatively traverse the length ofthe modular block 400 from the first end 402 to the second end 404 witha plurality of surface transitional 420 disposed between the first end402 an the second end 404. Each of the plurality of recessed and raisedportions 416, 418 include an angled or bearing surface 416A, 416B, 418A,418B. The angled or bearing surfaces 416A, 416B, 418A, 418B are disposedon either side of the plurality of recessed or raised portion 416, 418where the recessed and raised portions 416, 418 transition to thesurface 414 of the first side 406. The second side 408 has a structurethat mirrors the first side 406.

Referring now to FIG. 20C, an example of an assembly of the modularblocks 400 shown in FIG. 20B is illustrated and will now be described.The modular blocks 400 are assembled together such that the two of theplurality of raised portions 416 closest to the first end 402 of onemodular block 400 are disposed proximate to two of the plurality ofrecessed portions 418 closest to the second end 404 of a second modularblock 400.

Referring now to FIG. 21, en example of a modular block 500 isillustrated and will now be described. Generally, the modular block 500is a segment of the arch roof 14 and includes a first end 502, a secondend 504, a first side 506, a second side 508, a convex outer surface510, and a concave inner surface 512. More specifically, the first end502 of the modular block is a flat surface and is opposite another flatsurface of the second end 504. The first side 506 includes a firstsurface 514, a raised second surface 516, and a recessed third surface518. The raised second surface 316 essentially forms a frusto conicalshape extending from the first surface 514 and the recessed thirdsurface 518 essentially forms an inverted frusto conical shape into thefirst surface 514 of the block 500. Additional raised and recessedsurfaces 516, 518 may be added without departing from the scope of theinvention. The second side 508 has a structure that mirrors the firstside 506. Each of the recessed and raised portions 516, 518 include anangled surface 516A, 518A. The angled or bearing surfaces 516A, 518A aredisposed on either side of the recessed or raised portion 516, 518 wherethe recessed and raised portions 516, 518 transition to the surface 514of the first side 506. The second side 508 has a structure that mirrorsthe first side 506. The modular block 500 also includes a pair of bores588 disposed on the first surface 514 of the first and second sides 506,508 of the modular block 500. This results in the first surface 514communicates with the inner surfaces of the core 586 of the modularblock 500.

Referring now to FIG. 22, an example of an assembled pair of modularblocks 600 illustrated and now be described. Generally, the modularblock 600 is a segment of the arch roof 14 and includes a first end 602,a second end 604, a first side 606, a second side 608, a convex outersurface 610, and a concave inner surface 612. More specifically, thefirst end 602 of the modular block is a fiat surface and is oppositeanother flat surface of the second end 604. The first side 606 includesa first surface 614, a raised second surface 616, and a recessed thirdsurface 618. The raised second surface 616 essentially forms a frustoconical shape extending from the first surface 614 and the recessedthird surface 618 essentially forms an inverted frusto conical shapeinto the first surface 614 of the block 600. Additional raised andrecessed surfaces 616, 618 may be added without departing from the scopeof the invention. When assembling the pair of modular blocks 600, theraised surface 616 of a first of the pair of blocks 600 fits into therecessed surface 618 of a second of the pair of blocks 600. Furthermore,a fastening system is used to secure the pair of blocks 600 together.The second side 608 has a structure that mirrors the first side 606.Each of the recessed and raised portions 616, 618 include an angledsurface 616A. 618A. The angled or bearing surfaces 616A, 618A aredisposed on either side of the recessed or raised portion 616, 618 wherethe recessed and raised portions 616, 618 transition to the surface 614of the first side 606. The second side 608 has a structure that mirrorsthe first side 606. The modular block 600 also includes a pair of bores688 disposed on the first surface 614 of the first and second sides 606,608 of the modular block 600. This results in the first surface 614communicates with the inner surfaces of the core 686 of the modularblock 600. The modular block 600 may also include a center web 690 forstrengthening and handling purposes.

Referring now to FIG. 23, an example of a footing block 700 isillustrated and will not be described. The footing block 700 includes afirst end 702, a second end 704, a first side 706, a second side 708,and a channel 710 bisecting the footing block 700. The channel 710 isformed to receive the straight portion of a base modular block 714. Thefooting block 700 further includes a interlocking system 712 forstacking multiple footing blocks 700 end to end. The footing block 700may have a generally rectangular cross section, however, other types ofcross sections may be employed without departing from the scope of theinvention.

Referring now to FIG. 24, a construction form 800 is illustrated andwill now be described. The form 800 is designed to support buildingmaterials prior to being locked into place. For example, the form 800includes a plurality of radial supports 802, a hub 804, a tensionermechanism 806, and a plurality of arch supports 808. The hub 804receives a first end of each of the radial supports 802. The tensionermechanism 806 is disposed at the hub 804 and raises or lowers the hub804 according to the ideal positioning of the modular blocks of thearch. The plurality of arch supports 808 rests on the radial supportsand holds the modular blocks in place prior to placing the final modularblock and the lowering of the form by the tensioner mechanism 806.

The description of the invention is merely exemplary in nature andvariations that do not depart from the gist of the invention areintended to be within the scope of the invention. Such variations arenot to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of theinvention.

1-20. (canceled)
 21. A modular assembly for constructing an archedstructure between and along first and second foundation supports, saidassembly comprising: a plurality of modular blocks, each exhibiting anon-linear surface along a longest extending length direction and eachfurther having an open underside revealing first and second sides andinterconnecting first and second ends; said sides of each block definingfirst and second utter-engaging profiles configured so that identicallyconstructed blocks assemble in an offset pattern to construct theoverhead arch.
 22. The assembly as described in claim 21, saidinter-engaging profiles further comprising mating engaging and receivingpatterns.
 23. The assembly as described in claim 22, further comprisingclosed inner perimeter surfaces in said sides defining a plurality ofapertures, fasteners inserting through said apertures.
 24. The assemblyas described in claim 21, further comprising a spacer interposed betweenopposing end surfaces of successively positioned blocks,
 25. Theassembly as described in claim 22, said engaging patterns furthercomprising raised surfaces extending along an exterior of said firstside and recessed surfaces extending along an exterior of said secondside.
 26. The assembly as described in claim 25, further comprisingangled edges interconnecting each of said raised and recessed surfaceswith outer base surfaces extending along said sides.
 27. The assembly asdescribed in claim 23, said apertures further comprising a compressionsleeve seating within said closed perimeter surfaces and including firstand second end supported washers.
 28. The assembly as described in claim27, said fasteners each further comprising a two end threaded boltinsertable through an aligning pair of compression sleeves mounted infirst and second constructed blocks, a pair of threaded nuts engagingopposite projecting end locations of said bolt.
 29. The assembly asdescribed in claim 28, further comprising at least one lock washerpositioned between said aligning pair of compression sleeves.
 30. Theassembly as described in claim 28, farther comprising reinforcement barsextending through a plurality of end to end support blocks in crosswiseextending fashion relative to an axial direction of said threaded bolts.31. The assembly as described in claim 21, further comprising a utilityconnectivity system including a utility box mounted in a surfaceaccessible cavity and communicating with a utility conduit.
 32. Theassembly as described in claim 27, further comprising front and backwalls interconnecting with front and rear locations of said archedstructure, a plurality of anchoring nuts and bolts extending fromproximate located compression sleeves through receiving locations saidwalls.
 33. The assembly as described in claim 21, further comprising aninsulating layer positioned over an exterior of said arched structure.34. The assembly as described in 21, at least one of said modular blocksfurther comprising a skylight block with a transparent middle portion.35. The assembly as described in claim 21, at least one of said modularblocks further comprising a doorway modular block with an open interior.36. The assembly as described in claim 22, said mating engaging andreceiving patterns further comprising alternating recessed and raisedportions extending along each of said first and second sides.
 37. Theassembly as described in claim 36, said alternating portions furthercomprising mating projecting and recessed frusto-conical shapes withangled bearing surfaces.
 38. The assembly as described in claim 21,further comprising footing blocks adapted to being placed in a lengthextending row atop each of the foundation supports, a channel defined ineach row receiving a base modular block associated with opposite ends ofeach crosswise extending row of end to end positioned.
 39. The assemblyas described in claim 21, further comprising a plurality of radialsupports extending from an interior floor positioned hub to a pluralityof arch supports of said blocks.
 40. The assembly as described in claim35, further comprising an earthen berm overlaying an arched exterior ofsaid structure, a stairway extending between said doorway modular blocklocated a buried location to a surface accessible location.